MA–18 MAINTENANCE – GENERAL MAINTENANCE 18. BRAKE PEDAL (a) Check that pedal for smooth operation. (b) Check that the pedal has the proper reserve distance and freeplay. (c) Check the brake booster function. 19. BRAKES At a safe place, check that the brakes do not pull to one side when applied. 20. PARKING BRAKE (a) Check that the pedal has the proper travel. (b) On a safe incline, check that the vehicle is held securely with only the parking brake applied. 21. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION PARK MECHANISM (a) Check the lock release button of the selector lever for proper and smooth operation. (b) On a safe incline, check that the vehicle is held securely with the selector lever in the "P" position and all brakes released. UNDER HOOD 22. WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID Check that there is sufficient fluid in the tank. 23. ENGINE COOLANT LEVEL Check that the coolant level is between the LEVEL lines on the see–through reservoir at normal temperature (20°C (68°F)). 24. RADIATOR AND HOSES (a) Check that the front of the radiator is clean and not blocked with leaves, dirt or bugs. (b) Check the hoses for cracks, kinks, rot or loose connections. 25. BATTERY ELECTROLYTE LEVEL Check the indicator. When the indicator color is blue, the condition is satisfactory. A red color indicates that distilled water must be added, and white indicates that charging is necessary. 26. BRAKE FLUID LEVEL Check that the brake fluid level is near the upper level line on the see–through reservoir. 27. ENGINE DRIVE BELT Check drive belt for fraying, cracks, wear or oil contamination. 28. ENGINE OIL LEVEL Check that level on the dipstick with the engine turned off. 29. POWER STEERING FLUID LEVEL Check the level on the dipstick. The level should be in the "HOT" or "COLD" range depending on the fluid temperature. 30. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID LEVEL (a) Park the vehicle on a level surface. (b) With the engine idling and the parking and foot brake applied, shift the selector into all positions from "P" to "L", and then shift into "P" position. (c) Turn and pull out the dipstick and wipe off the fluid with a clean rag. Re–insert the dipstick fully and check that the fluid level is in the "HOT" range. (d) Perform this check with the fluid at normal driving temperature (70–80°C (158–176°F)). If the level is at the low side, add fluid. NOTICE: Do not overfill. HINT: Wait about 30 minutes before checking the fluid level after extended driving at high speeds in hot weather, driving in heavy traffic or with a trailer. 31. EXHAUST SYSTEM Visually inspect for cracks, holes or loose supports. If any change in the sound of the exhaust or smell of the exhaust fumes is noticed, have the cause located and correted.